Course overview
This course will examine science-related issues that affect society, as well as social issues that affect science. Implications for science policy, science education, science communication and scientific research will be considered. Students will work in teams to examine specific science-related issues that affect society and make recommendations for action. Students will prepare evidence briefs to inform decision makers. Students will examine specific social issues that affect science and prepare position statements on these issues. This course will provide historical perspective on the roles of science in society. It will enhance students' skills in teamwork, critical thinking, creative thinking and problem-solving to address issues in science and society.
Course learning outcomes
- Critically analyse literature relevant to specific scientific advances and their social relevance.
- Formulate logical evidence-based recommendations and supporting briefs related to issues in science and argue their relevance.
- Negotiate complex societal issues in a team through collaborative investigation and reporting
- Reflect on the social context of contemporary issues in science and relate its significance to practice in an individual field of specialisation.